Some may ask, “Why should we study the missionary methods of Paul? Surely, in all this time, we have grown beyond his old ways and have found better ways of accomplishing ministry.”
To this I would say, look around at the condition of the church at large throughout the world today, and see if you can find a model of success that compares to Paul. Yes, we have our “mega-churches.” They have huge congregations and lots of money, but are they successful in the sight of God? Are they raising up a generation of mature, Bible-instructed believers? I think not. The ignorance of the average believer today is astounding. Many cannot even give a clear presentation of the Gospel message.
In a recent survey across the United States, only about 13% of regular church goers said that they believe in hell, and about the same number doubted the inspiration and infallibility of the Bible. The church as a whole is in a shambles, and the reason is that we have forsaken the God-given way—exemplified by Paul—to achieve the great commission of “making disciples of all nations” (Mat 28:19).

Gene Cunningham - January 8, 2000

The Divine Mentor #2

Jesus' upper room discourse covered the coming Holy Spirit, and 4 things showing our need: (1) He washed their feet -- we can't cleanse ourselves; (2) He gave an impossible command "love one another as I have loved you"; (3) the works He did He promised He said we'd do more; (4) "If I go away, I will send a helper". "He will guide you in the way..." (Joh 16:12-14). Does God guide like He used to? Yes. He has given us a longing to "go home" (Ecc 3:11, 1Jo 2:17). We need guidance because God knows us intimately, He knows our future, and He has a purpose no one else can fulfill. If we trust in ourself or others, our heart departs from the Lord; our heart is deceitful (Jer 17:5-9). God cannot guide a rebelious heart (Jer 42:1-6, Jer 44:16-17), if we bargain with Him (Gen 28:20-21), if we ignore His will, or if we don't search scripture. Don't expect special guidance when duty is clear or as a substitute for common sense (1Ki 13:1-34). 3 ways to look for guidance (1) by example -- Jesus in the gospels (1Co 11:1); (2) in practice (Act 8:1-5, Act 10:19, Act 16:7); (3) in principle in Epistles. These things must align in determining God's will: (1) Gods Word; (2) the inner urging of the Spirit; (3) providential circumstances.

Scripture References: Acts 10:19, Ecclesiastes 3:11, Acts 8:1-5, John 16:12-14, Genesis 28:20-21, Jeremiah 44:16-17, Jeremiah 42:1-6, Jeremiah 17:5-9, Acts 16:7, John 2:17

More Messages from Gene Cunningham | Download Audio

From Series: "The Divine Mentor"

The Divine Mentor is God the Holy Spirit. God answered Jesus' prayer to provide us the Spirit not just to be with us but in us -- to pray with us labor with us to guide us teach us and equip us -- the goal being that we'd be prepared for the troubled times in which we live.

More Messages from Gene Cunningham...

Powered by Series Engine